Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle and Cincinnati Reds first baseman Sal Stewart were named the American League and National League Rookie of the Year winners on Monday. McGonigle, 22, dominated the BBWAA vote, receiving 28 of 30 first-place votes. He led the AL with 7.1 WAR and joined Ted Williams as the only rookie in history to finish in the top five in both walks and hits.
McGonigle slashed .278/.376/.430 with 18 home runs, 12 stolen bases, and 97 runs scored. Stewart, also 22, made history for Cincinnati, becoming just the fifth rookie ever to record 30 homers and 100 RBIs, finishing with 32 home runs and 112 RBIs. Stewart slashed .263/.330/.457 with 15 stolen bases.
The duo highlighted a standout rookie class that also featured Guardians pitcher Parker Messick and Mets rookie Carson Benge. McGonigle and Stewart represent the new faces of MLB.
Source: ESPN MLB · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing